i don't know if this helps.
i consulted dan wright and asked about the sony with the tube mod compared to the oppo 83se with the same mod.
he recommended the oppo with the tube mod.
he suggested the sound of the sony was a bit sharper (in the treble).
of course the right tube may mitigate the treble problem.
what about marantz or conrad johnson universal player.
i realize the thread is about sony. you might consider other brands as well.
i consulted dan wright and asked about the sony with the tube mod compared to the oppo 83se with the same mod.
he recommended the oppo with the tube mod.
he suggested the sound of the sony was a bit sharper (in the treble).
of course the right tube may mitigate the treble problem.
what about marantz or conrad johnson universal player.
i realize the thread is about sony. you might consider other brands as well.